The advantage of owning a hatchback is the ease of rear access and extra space to store your traveling necessity – even a dog crate! It’s only natural if this type of car is one of dog owner’s favorites for its versatility. It’s always wise to provide as much safety as you can afford, especially when you’re traveling for some distance. Not a fan of dog crates on your passenger seat? Read more to find the dog travel crate for hatchback to shelter your pup!
How To Choose The Best Dog Travel Crate for Hatchback
Besides the obvious necessities such as measurements of your dog and your vehicles, there are additional things to consider before you purchase a dog travel crate for hatchback. Below are some pointers to start!
Pet’s Behavior and Temperament
There are 2 types of mobile crates for dogs you can choose: steel cages or soft crates. The decision may rely on your pup’s temperament and whether they’re crate-trained or not. Going on trips can cause stress and anxiety to some dogs. Young puppies even tend to nibble or express some digging behavior. When this is the case, it’s better to choose a sturdier dog travel crate for hatchback, preferably steel wire ones. However, giving them proper training will sort this problem out and allow you to get the more compact and lighter soft crates.
Size
The first thing you need to do is to measure the size of your cabin so you won’t get a dog crate that’s too big for or whether your dog is suitable to be transported by the vehicle. The key to keeping your pup happy while traveling is to ensure its safety and comfort inside the crate. A crate that is too cramped will obviously put your pup a risk of injury and anxiety. Additionally, that also applies to a crate that’s too big.
The rule of thumb of choosing the right size is to make sure your pup has some wiggle room to stretch or turn around freely but snug enough to keep its body from moving around too much. However, if you have small dogs, we recommend you to get a crate that’s one size bigger for additional stability. If you have medium or big dogs, the proper size is enough.
Material
Dog travel crate for hatchback comes in different sizes and materials to fulfill different needs. There are soft-case and padded crates that have a great advantage in terms of weight and versatility. But you need to understand that these crates aren’t very sustainable if you have a nibbling pup. These crates are indeed warm and comfy, though you need to check their ventilation if you’re on a long trip. Steel or aluminum hard crates are very suitable for pets that are large in proportion and well-ventilated, yet you might want to buy an additional bed or pillow to make sure your pup isn’t lying on a hard surface. They’re usually heavy so you may want to consider that.
Portability
Do you often travel with your family? If yes, choosing foldable and non-bolted crates are great options. That way, you have the option to have a nice getaway with your four-legged soulmate or tuck away the crate to do it with your family instead. Soft-cased crates are highly recommended due to their weight and occupied space, though some steel/aluminum crates are also foldable even though heavier.
What type of dog travel crate is best for a puppy?
Puppies will likely exhibit digging or nibbling behavior. Steel wire or aluminum crates are preferable to prevent your puppy from chewing or digging the crate and damaging it.
Should you put a toy in your dog’s crate?
While some dogs don’t need toys to remain calm in their crate, it’s completely fine to leave some toys inside with them. Although, keep in mind that you can’t supervise your pup while driving, so make sure to leave only durable toys inside. You wouldn’t want your pup to ingest Mr. Squeaky.
How do I stop my dog from tearing up his crate?
While crate-training is crucial, wearing your pup out before a trip can reduce the pup’s urge to destroy the crate. A play or walk time should do to let them stay calm in their crate. If it’s a long trip, make several stops throughout so your pup (and you, too!) can stretch a bit and reduce stress and boredom.
How to keep the crate stop moving inside the car?
While most dog travel crates for hatchback include safety straps with hooks to secure the crate, some may not. That said, you’ll need to purchase additional straps to make it work. Keep it snug and tight! Don’t want to rely on straps? Find well-fitted crates to pair with your hatchback!
Should you cover a dog crate with a blanket/cover?
At the beginning of crate training, dogs get benefit from the safety of crate cover. It also poses a great benefit for dogs on car trips! However, you’d want to pay attention to the airflow to avoid suffocation and anxiety.
Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Crate
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The first entry in our list is the Noz2Noz Soft-Krater Crate that isn’t only portable but also versatile. This amazing soft-case crate is perfect for up to 100lbs of dogs. It weighs only 11lbs and sets up in only seconds due to its construction. If you think this crate is flimsy, you’d be surprised by its strength and durability thanks to its steel frame structure.
This portable crate is quite versatile that you can use either indoor or outdoor. The rounded corners and choice of materials (vinyl) make this crate easy to clean and stored. The base is water-resistant, and the wall area is equipped with mesh linings to provide better ventilation. Since there’s only one color option, it’d be great to see other colors for this great product!
What We Love
Portable and lightweight crate with great ventilation.
Pros:
- Highly durable
- Mesh wall included
- Easy-to-clean water-resistant base
- The foldable steel frame structure
- 3 zippable entries
Cons:
- The mesh wall is prone to clawing.
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4pets ProLine Crash Tested Dog Crate Cerebrus Large (CU)
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Dogs aren’t only pets, are they? For us, they are our companions, a family member. It is only natural for us to give the best comfort and protection within our power. If you have a small pup that travels around with you, consider purchasing 4pets ProLine Crash Tested Dog Crate. Having this solid unit at the back of your car is also having a peace of mind that should an accident happen, your pup will be safe in this robust cage. Just like its name, this crate passes Germany’s crash test!
This Swiss-engineered crate fits most hatchbacks even those with shallow roofs. The company releases a guide website to help you determine the fit using the posted QR code. The interior has plenty of room for your pup to turn round and stretch its legs a bit. It’s also maintenance-free due to the materials used: anodized aluminum and reinforced fiberglass. While it’s designed for two dogs, this cage will work for one big dog by taking off the separator. Make sure to visit their website for further instruction and guidance because setting it up can be a little tricky.
What We Love
A trusted, rugged dog travel crate for hatchback that’s perfect for your four-legged companion.
Pros:
- Fits 2 medium dogs or 1 large dog
- Swiss-engineered
- Crash-tested by TUV
- Little to no maintenance
- Locks included
- Detachable separator
- Removable floor mat
Cons:
- Permanent placement
- Heavy and bulky
- Pricey
- Putting it up can pose some challenges
Diggs Revol Dog Crate
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Who says you need to sacrifice looks for robustness? Diggs Revol Dog Crate is here to provide your pup the security it needs but won’t make your cabin look like a small prison. This crate is sturdily made using the best materials possible you will love. This collapsible crate weighs about 40lbs and can withstand up to 50lbs in its corners to make sure it holds its structure. A foldable crate needs to hold its structure since you don’t want to have the crate collapse while your pup is in it.
Another awesome thing about this product is that it’s baby-safe; meaning no more pinched fingers of paws! The materials used are high-quality aluminum, steel mesh wire, and reinforced plastic. Though it takes a bit of space when folded, this crate is easy to move using its built-in wheels. To make the ordeal easier, this crate is also including collapsible handles and removable steel mesh.
What We Love
Foldable crates have never looked this good!
Pros:
- Built-in baby industry standard
- 1 entry point, with roof maintenance latches
- Easy to clean
- Built-in wheels
- Detachable sidewalls
- Sturdy build
- Can withstand even the naughtiest dog
Cons:
- Doesn’t come in large size
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AmazonBasics Premium Portable Soft Crate
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If you’re looking for the best dog travel crate for hatchback then you might want to include AmazonBasics Premium Portable Soft Crate in your pet gear. This soft crate works well for most vehicles due to its compact but comfy size. It’s also lightweight and can be folded flat. In fact, it’s one of the slimmest folded form factors in the market! The crate is available in 6 sizes you can choose according to your pup’s measurement.
Surprisingly, the whole crate weighs only 6lbs and can shelter medium-sized pups extremely well. It’s so lightweight that you can carry it with only one hand. The key is the PVC frame that provides great support while shedding some grams in the progress. This portable kennel is most suitable for well-behaved and crate-trained dogs to ensure its durability. However, Amazon offers a one-year warranty if there’s anything wrong with the product.
What We Love
A high-quality but affordable option!
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Folding into a very compact size
- Rounded-corners
- Top and front entry
- Mesh lining to promote ventilation
Cons:
- Not suitable for destructive or heavy dogs
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Petsfit Travel Pet Home
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Need to step up in your pup travel shelter game? Petsfit Travel Pet Home is your savior. Coming from a well-known company that supplies high-quality pet gear, this portable crate makes a sturdy and roomy snooze space for your furbaby. The structure is supported by an aluminum frame to maintain less weight with adequate strength. The walls on this soft-crate are secured with both screw-in mesh screens and zip flaps so you need not worry about the airflow while your pup is inside.
Moving this crate is easy with the help of handles on the top of the crate. You’ll also find the roof zip door you can open to access your pup from above. Aside from the top opening, there are also front and side opening if you want to provide some extra space for your puppy. The interior of this crate is completely odorless and water-resistant to give you ease in cleaning the inevitable. Currently, this portable crate comes in black and gray in 3 sizes.
What We Love
A very proper hatchback dog crate you can set up and tuck away whenever.
Pros:
- Durable
- Odorless and easy to clean
- Mesh screen
- 2 handles for moving ease
- Plush mat included
Cons:
- Not very suitable for a dog with a high level of energy
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EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate
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Traveling with your pup isn’t equal to hassle with EliteField 3-Door Folding Soft Dog Crate. This soft-walled crate is comprised of a sturdy steel tube structure and wrapped in 600D Nylon to provide shelter with even a degree of weather protection. Under the nylon flaps is a hexagonal mesh screen that works well to give extra ventilation. It’s completely easy to assemble and fold into a thin and compact format of less than 19lbs. Have this portable crate in the car with you without getting anything in the way!
This dog travel crate for hatchback has many colors and size variants of this crate because not all dogs are created the same! The crate is ideal for small-sized dogs to some big breeds. In your purchase, you’ll get the main unit, a carrying bag, and a fleece bed to make sure your pup stays warm! Don’t have a freestanding water bottle? Worry not! Attach it to its built-in water bottle holder at the back.
What We Love
Amazing soft crate for the frequent travelers or camping goers.
Pros:
- Easy to transfer using handles or shoulder strap
- Fold into a compact height
- 2-year warranty
- Scratch-resistant nylon and mesh screen
- Strong steel tube support
- Lightweight
- Comes in plenty color variant
Cons:
- Most suitable for well-behaved and crate-trained dogs
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Jespet Soft Pet Crates Kennel
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Soft-crates are chosen for their lightweight attribute and ease of storage. However, while other products opt to sacrifice their sturdiness, Jespet Soft Pet Crates Kennel chooses not to make compromises and achieve the best of the worlds. This 3-entry crate is suitable even for the most frequent dog traveler with its steel tube frame and 600D Nylon. The crate also incorporates hex mesh screens to promote better ventilation and pup’s visibility.
Traveling on cold days? Make sure your pup is warm and snuggly with the included fleece bed. It’s completely washable, just like the rest of the unit. When not used, the soft crate can be folded flat and stored with ease. But if you’d like to move it without folding, you may carry the whole crate with the included carry straps. This foldable crate comes in 3 color variants and 3 sizes to accommodate dogs up to 30lbs.
What We Love
It’s super lightweight and sets up conveniently!
Pros:
- Collapsible bar with a spring mechanism
- 3-zip entry
- Hex mesh screen
- Fleece bed included
- Folds flat
- Durable structure and walls
Cons:
- The zippers are the most vulnerable part especially for chewing or digging dogs
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Kerbl Slanted Front Dog Cage
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If you’re an old school who finds more security in steel wires and bolt crates, then Kerbl Slanted Front Dog Cage will treat you well. The collapsible cage is designed with a slanted roof to fit most hatchback cars especially those with low clearing. Though not designed for longer trips, this cage is perfect for taking your pet to the vet or a trip with multiple checkpoints. We’d like to see more color variants of this product since they only offer black at the moment.
Weighing only 14lbs, this foldable cage sets up in seconds. There are 2 entrances to choose either at the back or the slanted portion. The downside of steel wire cages is that you need to get your pup extra protection in the winter. However, cleaning it is such a breeze. Using some dish soap and running water is enough to clean the wires and bottom tray. The foldable cage is great for one medium dog.
What We Love
A no-frill cage that works as it should.
Pros:
- Powdered anti-rust steel wire
- 2-entry cage
- Top handle
- Works on most hatchbacks
- User-friendly
Cons:
- Not suitable for a winter trip
- It only comes in one size
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Pet Gear “The Other Door” Crate
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There are several reasons why Pet Gear “The Other Door” Crate is one of the most chosen options for dog travel crate for hatchback in the market. The first obvious reason is that it’s so well-made and sturdy. Its construction is made of high-quality plastic and steel frame to ensure your pup is safe inside even in those longer travels. It’s also not as heavy as other wire crates that rely solely on steel. This crate is portable with a relatively easy and fast setup.
Other reasons are it gives you great access to your pup. It has multiple access points for different uses. The front entry (with steel bolt) for quick access, the slide-to-open walls make great garage-style access for your pup, and the roof door for maintenance uses. The crate is foldable unlit flat to be tucked away in its case until the next use. It also has wheels to ease moving. If an incident happens in the crate, everything is easy to clean up with wipes and dried within minutes. If you’re looking for something that lasts for a long time, this is it!
What We Love
A sturdy crate that provides ease of entry and maintenance.
Pros:
- 4-point entry
- Made from durable material
- Comfort pad as bonus
- Built-in handles and wheels
- Travel bag included
- Insulated base
- Easy to clean
- Round corners to protect your cabin
Cons:
- It’s pricey and bulky
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Pet Gear 3 Dog Soft Crate (CU)
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Worry less and enjoy your vacation more knowing your furry companion is safe and sound throughout the journey. Pet Gear 3 Dog Soft Crate is the shelter you didn’t know you need! With the fold-flat design and user-friendly setup, you will see your pup settling in in no time. Albeit light, this soft crate has a sturdy structure once appropriately setup. It also sets up in seconds with a one-button lock to secure the whole construction. The frame is then wrapped in water-resistant 600D Nylon that’s already known for its strength. What about the airflow? The mesh screen at strategic spots will let your pup breathes with ease and keep cool!
There are zippers securing the 3 entrances: Roof, side, and front access. It makes a great mobile crate or carrier, especially with the included accessory bags you can find attached on the roof of the crate and another detachable one at the back. Such a nifty addition to storing your pup’s necessities such as a mosquito suit! If you travel in the winter, there’s also a detachable fleece pad you can install on the base. It’s one of the best dog travel crate for hatchback for you who like to prepare!
What We Love
It assembles and disassembles in a blink!
Pros:
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Fold-flat
- Comes in 5 sizes
- Fleece pad and accessory bags included
- Round corners
- 600D Nylon
- One button lock
Cons:
- Mesh may be caught on naughty pup’s claw
MidWest iCrate Starter Kit
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In our search for the best dog travel crate for hatchback, we were recommended MidWest iCrate Starter Kit right from the very beginning and we understand why. Dubbed as one of the toughest collapsible wire crates, this unit is solid from the core and more! It’s built with your pup in mind that you will get everything you need in a single purchase! In this kit, you will get a foldable crate and its cover, bottom tray, two Snap’y bowls (courtesy of MidWest), a cozy fleece bed!
The crate itself is made of coated steel wire that’s folded into a couple of inches including the leak-proof bottom tray. The Snap’y bowls are convenient to install wherever they’re needed. The no-hassle policy also extends to mobility since it has 4 rollers at the bottom to protect your floor. The fleece bed is amazingly soft – even for humans! Need to house 2 dogs? Just install the divider and you’re set to go! So far, we believe this is the safest bet for your bucks.
What We Love
Everything you need in one purchase – in great quality!
Pros:
- Anti-rust steel cage
- Foldable
- Nylon cover, dog bed, and bowls included
- 1-year warranty
- Dual-entry
- Built-in rollers and handles
Cons:
- The bolt may get loose over time
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A4Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate and Kennel (CU)
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Roomy, well-ventilated, and ready whenever it’s needed, A4Pet Soft Collapsible Dog Crate and Kennel I the soft-crate every dog lover must-have. The form factor of this unit is perfect for any hatchback SUV out there. It has round corners to prevent unnecessary scratches in the cabin. The walls are equipped with mesh screens to maintain airflow. 2 of these screens are safely secured by auto-lock zippers that also secure the entries (front and side).
We’re astounded by how easy it sets up. With a little lifting, everything falls and locks into places. The top handles definitely help to erect this mobile shelter. The material that wraps the structure is the durable Oxford fabric and completely waterproofed. Should you need to clean the crate, you can take off the cover and handwash it to prevent damages to the waterproofing. This crate turned our world that we can no longer think of leaving without it!
What We Love
When we talk about SUVs and pets, this crate is the one that connects both of the worlds!
Pros:
- Perfectly built for SUVs
- Super durable
- Waterproof base
- Mesh screen for ventilation
- Top, side, and front entry
- Round corners
- Great for both indoor and outdoor uses
- Auto-lock zipper
- Steel frame
- Cushion included
Cons:
- A little heavier than other similar products
4×4 North America MIM Safe VarioCage
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The ultimate dog travel crate for hatchback in our eyes is the mighty 4×4 North America MIM Safe VarioCage. This robust unit is as fierce as it looks. Having this cage in your vehicle means that you’re that amazing owner that will use everything in their arsenal to keep their precious (and them!) safe because it’s the only transport cage that is tested to survive front, rear, and roll-over crashes.
Weighing a solid 46lbs, this cage will fit in most SUV with still some space to store other stuff such as surfboards for dogs. This product comes in 4 adjustable models and 14 sizes so there always be a size for a good fit. This cage is equipped with a built-in lock and emergency hatch in case of an accident. Though heavy, you won’t get too much trouble opening this cage since the hydraulic will do it for you. All-in-all, go for extra miles if you can afford this because sometimes safety has its price.
What We Love
It’s robust, mammoth-strength, and crash-proof: the best money can buy!
Pros:
- Crash-tested
- Built-in lock
- Leash hooks
- Hydraulic door
- Emergency hatch
- Adjustable size
- Bolted and secured to the chassis
- Rubber carpet included
Cons:
- It’s huge and hefty
- Very expensive
- Not including a dog bed/pad
- Installation may be challenging
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